Tonight’s battle between the Butler Bulldogs and the Duke Blue Devils was all that we could hope for in a championship game. 

The game came down to the wire, and in a defensive struggle it was the Blue Devils who came out on top as the 2010 NCAA Champions.

With Duke leading 60-59, Butler swingman Gordon Hayward missed a fade-away jumped (contested by 7’1″ Brian Zoubek) with about 4 seconds left in the game that sealed the fate for the Bulldogs.  Zoubek grabbed the defensive rebound and was immediately fouled with 3.5 seconds left on the game clock.  The Duke center, who contributed 8 points and 10 rebounds, made one of two free throws, making the score 61-59.

Hayward hoisted a shot around the mid-court mark that caromed off the backboard and hit the rim – but was slightly off the mark. 

Butler and Duke accepted and delivered punches all night.  Duke tried to exploit its size, but they only ended the game with a 36-32 advantage on the boards.  The Blue Devils shot better from the field (44% to 35%), and did just enough to hold off Butler in the waning minutes of the game.  Kyle Singler was the most effective player tonight, scoring 19 points (7-13 FG, 3-6 on three’s), grabbing 9 rebounds and blocking 2 shots. 

Kyle Singler was the best player on the court in the title game.

Duke had extended the lead to five points late in the second half, 60-55, when Butler was able to score two consecutive baskets.  The Blue Devils couldn’t capitalize on either of their two possessions during that span, setting up Butler’s final possession in which Hayward was unable to convert.

Mike Krzyzewski – who recently shot down rumors that he had interest in the New Jersey Nets head coaching position – collected his fourth NCCA title.  And with a team of overachievers, he will definitely cherish this one.  In a college basketball season that saw dominant performances by the Kansas Jayhawks, Kentucky Wildcats and Syracuse Orangemen, it was the Blue Devils who were able to play consistently and effectively against each and every opponent in the tournament. 

More than any other, this was a team that reflected the imprint of its legendary coach.

The Butler Bulldogs have nothing to hang their heads about.  Playing in their hometown for the Final Four, they were able to dispel many myths about the talent difference between traditional basketball powerhouses and mid-major schools.  They proved that the difference can be overcome through hard work, preparation and attention to detail.  Oh, and they had quite a bit of talent on their roster, as well. 

All in all, an unexpected NCAA Tournament ended with an expected result – great coaching and defense proved to be the deciding factor for determining the last team standing.